With a new Dutch expansion for Train Sim World 5, a VR take on the same franchise and a look at Plastic Battlegrounds, this new roundup caters to train fans as well as those who enjoy toy soldiers.
Train Sim World 5 – Spoorlijn Zwolle – Groningen Route Add-On review
The Spoorlijn Zwolle – Groningen Route Add-On for Train Sim World 5 introduces Dutch railways to the franchise, offering a detailed recreation of the 107-kilometer journey between two mid-sized cities in the Netherlands. The DLC includes two electric trains – the modern SNG Sprinter and the classic ICMm Koploper – each designed with a high level of detail in their modeling and functionality, as per the norm for the franchise. The accuracy of the stations and their signage is a highlight for those familiar with them, with many structures and elements closely resembling their real-life counterparts – though a different route in the Netherlands would have been more recognizable to most players. And while the stations are well-crafted, some aspects of the surrounding scenery, such as an overabundance of trees and the occasional misplaced building, detract from immersion.
Gameplay-wise, the driving experience is engaging, with the ATB safety system functioning well and both trains offering a distinct feel. The ICMm requires careful handling due to its older design, while the SNG features a more responsive, modern control system. However, there are some technical shortcomings, including signal inaccuracies and minor animation issues with train doors and indicator lights. These flaws, while not game-breaking, do affect realism and may require future patches.
Visually, the route shines in many areas, especially on high settings when played on PC, where textures and lighting bring the Dutch railway experience to life. That said, some of the route’s environmental details feel generic or misplaced, which can be particularly noticeable to those familiar with the region. The audio design is another strong point, with well-replicated train sounds and station ambiance contributing to authenticity.
Despite its strengths, the DLC’s full-price value is debatable. While the included rolling stock is well-made, the absence of additional train variants and the need for post-launch fixes make us hesitant to recommend it at launch. Those eager to explore Dutch railways may still find it worthwhile, but others might prefer waiting for updates or more Dutch content.
Train Sim World VR: New York review (Quest)
More trains this week! Train Sim World VR: New York aims to bring the intricate world of train simulation into virtual reality, offering players the opportunity to operate MTA M3A and M7A trains along the Harlem Line. The game introduces a Career Mode where players manage train operations, adhere to speed limits, and engage with the environment by honking at rail workers and enthusiasts. While this setup promises an immersive experience, the execution falls short in several areas once the VR novelty wears off.
The core gameplay revolves around repetitive tasks: opening and closing doors, accelerating and decelerating, and honking the horn at designated prompts. This cycle lacks depth and becomes monotonous over time, offering little variation or progression to keep players engaged. Additionally, the controls, though initially appearing complex, reveal limited interactivity, with many buttons and switches in the cab being non-functional, diminishing the sense of realism for sim purists.
Visually, the game struggles to deliver a compelling environment due to the limitation of the Quest. There are graphical issues, including noticeable pop-in and low-detail textures, which detract from the immersion expected in a VR title. On the Meta Quest 3, while the game maintains stable performance, the overall presentation feels dated and lacks the polish seen in other VR simulations or Train Sim World on PC.
Despite these shortcomings, players who are fans of trains can find enjoyment in the novelty of operating trains in VR and exploring the Harlem Line. However, the game’s limited gameplay variety, basic presentation, and lack of meaningful interaction make it difficult to recommend, especially at its current price point. For dedicated train enthusiasts, Train Sim World VR: New York might offer a brief diversion, but it fails to capture the depth and engagement that fans of the genre have come to expect.
Plastic Battlegrounds review (Quest)
Plastic Battlegrounds brings the classic fantasy of toy soldier warfare to life in VR, offering a mix of sandbox creativity and chaotic combat. Players can engage in large-scale battles, setting up their own scenarios or jumping in as a soldier to fight alongside AI teammates. The game features four factions – Green, Tan, Blue, and Grey – and allows for a variety of playstyles, from piloting drones to driving toy tanks.
The game’s main Conquest mode plays like a toy-themed Battlefield experience, where players must capture and hold objectives while fighting off waves of enemy troops. Vehicles add another layer of strategy, letting players zip around the battlefield or rain destruction from above in helicopters. The interactive environments add to the immersion, with objects like toy bricks providing cover and secret weapons hidden throughout the maps. The level design does a great job of selling the toy soldier fantasy, with battlefields set in childhood locations like bedrooms and basements, making every skirmish feel like a reenactment of classic playtime wars – definitely evoking Army Men memories.
While the game nails its core concept, it does feel like an Early Access title in some ways. AI behavior is somewhat simplistic, with enemies charging towards objectives rather than using tactics like cover or stealth. Some weapons and vehicles, particularly aircraft, have clunky motion controls that could use refinement. Additionally, performance on the Quest platform is inconsistent – small-scale battles run well, but larger fights can cause noticeable lag, even on the Quest 3.
Despite these issues, Plastic Battlegrounds succeeds in delivering an experience that taps into childhood nostalgia while providing genuine fun. The ability to create custom battles and discover hidden lore elements adds depth beyond the combat. Fans of sandbox war games will find plenty to enjoy, and with continued updates, this could become a must-have VR title. More (multiplayer) content is on the horizon, and if the developers refine the game’s mechanics and AI, it has the potential to be a standout experience.
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